Alzheimer’s disease is a growing public health crisis in Delaware, and the impact of Alzheimer’s is projected to rise. A comprehensive public health approach is essential to improve community health, support the well-being of those living with cognitive decline and their families, and reduce the risk of dementia throughout communities. The most recent data show:

Fact sheets on Alzheimer's and dementia in Delaware

View and download state-specific fact sheets for the latest data on each topic:

Learn more about how these data are collected in the annual Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures report and the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS).

Public health progress in Delaware

State, local, territorial and tribal health departments are key partners in implementing a robust public health response to dementia. The Delaware Department of Health and Social Services Division of Public Health is improving brain health throughout the state.

Delaware released a strategic plan to guide a future statewide public health outreach campaign focused on Alzheimer’s and other dementia, including awareness, caregiver support, improvement of care, and strengthening the health care workforce. It was developed in response to a 2024 Senate resolution directing the state to assess needs, messaging and resources related to dementia. Building on past efforts, the plan outlines eight key recommendations aligned with national best practices to help Delaware better support individuals and families impacted by Alzheimer's and other dementia.

Working across the levels of prevention

Across the levels of prevention, the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services Division of Public Health implements public health programs and interventions to address Alzheimer's through:

• Risk reduction: Integrated Alzheimer's risk reduction messaging with other chronic disease prevention efforts, including tobacco cessation.
• Early detection and diagnosis: Collaborated with key organizations involved in early detection and diagnosis, including the Medical Society of Delaware, Delaware Nurses Association, Delaware Medicaid and Medical Assistance, the Division of Health Care Quality, and the Alzheimer’s Association Delaware Valley Chapter. These partnerships aim to strengthen the state’s approach to addressing Alzheimer’s and other dementia.
• Safety and quality of care: Worked to improve the capacity of Delaware's workforce to meet the needs of people living with Alzheimer's and other dementia by supporting education and new technologies to promote a team-based care approach.

Resources for public health professionals

Tools from the Alzheimer's Association provide public health strategies that public health professionals can use to improve brain health and support caregivers and people living with dementia in your community.

Healthy Brain Initiative (HBI) Road Map

This guidebook provides state and local public health agencies with 24 actions to act quickly and strategically to effect positive changes in policies, systems and environments.

HBI Road Map for American Indian and Alaska Native Peoples

Find 13 public health strategies to help American Indian and Alaska Native communities improve brain health, address dementia and support caregivers.

Public Health Curriculum

This curriculum is designed for public health students, educators and professionals.

Risk Reduction

Public health can reduce the risk of Alzheimer's across the lifespan by promoting being physically active, quitting smoking, and being heart-healthy.
 

Early Detection & Diagnosis

Public health professionals can educate the community and health care providers on the benefits of early detection and help reduce barriers to diagnosis.

Caregiver Support

Public health can raise awareness of caregiver needs and help develop support and resources.